Orthopedic chairs - Electric wheelchair (or powerchair)

Electric wheelchairs become and option for anyone who does not have sufficient upper body mobility to propel a standard wheelchair with their own strength. These chairs are also known as powerchairs.

Motorized wheelchairs have an electric motor that is powered by a rechargeable battery and both the battery and the motor are located underneath the seat of the chair. A joystick control on one of the armrest is the most common way of controlling an electric wheelchair and this allows forwards (and sometimes backwards) motion and directional control. This joystick can be located on the left or right armrest.

The electric wheelchair will have smaller rear wheels than a user propelled wheelchair and the seat, armrests and side supports will often play a greater role in holding or restraining the position of the passenger than a standard wheelchair. Headrests are available on many of these chairs.

These powerchairs are often higher than regular wheelchairs. This is partly because of the necessity for space under the seat to house the motor and battery, but also because visibility is improved with a higher seat platform.

As with standard chairs, there are many models and many options available when it comes to selecting a powerchair. Some chairs are lightweight and can be folded down and transported in a car, others do not fold up. Models that are transportable will usually have easily removable batteries and fabric seats and backrests that are light and that can collapse as the chair is folded. Models that are not easily transportable tend to have heavier, have more padded seats and they may also have larger batteries.

Most electric wheelchairs will have height adjustable armrests and the footrests will swing, detach or swivel for easy access. Backrests are typically adjustable for rake (angle) and some models do offer a degree of seat height adjustment.

Performance

The range and carrying capacity of powerchairs varies and there are bariatric versions of these chairs for larger and heavier people.

Some of the more expensive (and larger battery) models have a travel range of up to (and in some cases over) 25 miles and, whilst the typical passenger carrying capacity is about 250 pounds, many chairs can carry much heavier people.

The quality of terrain and the degree of slope (e.g. a hill) that a powerchair can deal with will be dependant upon the model and, if you intend to make longer journeys, this should be an important consideration in determining which powerchair to buy.

Powerchairs have a small turning radius, a drive and suspension system that makes the ride smooth and comfortable, and a number of extras are available on many models. These options can be simple features like baskets or storage areas, however more advance features like hydraulically lifting seats are also available.

Electrically powered wheelchairs are no longer as expensive as they once were and improvements in technology mean that they are now lighter and have much greater ranges than was the case a few years ago.

In the UK some people may be eligible to an electric wheelchair through the National Health Service. If you believe that you may qualify you will need to see your doctor in order to get a referral.